Cast
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Jack Scalia
as Joseph 'Joey' Buttafuoco
Alyssa Milano
as Amy Fisher
Phyllis Lyons
as Mary Jo Buttafuoco
Leo Rossi
as Bobby Buttafuoco
J.E. Freeman
as Det. Marty Algar
Peter Van Norden
as Joey's Attorney
Lawrence Tierney
as Joey Buttafucco's Father
Anne DeSalvo
as Roseann Fisher
Michael Bowen
as Paul Makely
Jack Kehler
as Elliot Fisher
Jeff Perry
as Amy's Attorney
Georgia Emelin
as Lizzy
Mike Girard Sheehan
as Vince Donnelly
Nancy Cassaro
as Maria
Nick Corello
as Frankie
Crew
Director
- John Herzfeld
Writer
- John Herzfeld
Producer
- John Herzfeld
- Vahan Moosekian
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Casualties of Love: The Long Island Lolita Story examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of a period setting that reflects societal issues of its time. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director John Herzfeld brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1993, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Casualties of Love: The Long Island Lolita Story took approximately 17 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 95 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 141 minutes long.
- The musical score contains over 73 unique compositions.
- The screenplay went through 7 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 9 months to complete.
Historical Context
- In 1993, when this film was released:
- The internet was beginning to transform communication and information access.
- Globalization was accelerating economic and cultural exchange.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While Casualties of Love: The Long Island Lolita Story shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike The Park Maniac, which focuses more on action than character development, Casualties of Love: The Long Island Lolita Story offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like The Investigation: A Search for the Truth in Ten Acts and Dirty Dancing explore similar territory, Casualties of Love: The Long Island Lolita Story stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: January 3, 1993
- Runtime: 1h 35m
